These 16 bit character re-designs have so much personality, and were clearly inspired by the character designs in Super Mario Bros. 3, which only adds to their charm.

They were created by Jesus Castaneda, and you can see his take on lots more pop culture icons, such as Doctor Who, Boba Fett Harry Potter and the Ghostbusters, at the link below. These guys should star in a Mario crossover game, and I like that he didn't skimp on the belly bulge!